NAMCHI, (IPR): Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay along with his spouse Krishna Rai graced the concluding day of the week-long Shrimad Bhagavat Saptah Gyan Mahayagya held at Siddheshwar Dham, Namchi.
The spiritual event marked the 15th Foundation Year Celebrations of Siddheshwar Dham and began on April 19, culminating on Friday in an atmosphere of divine devotion and cultural reverence.
The seven-day religious discourse was led by Jagatguru Ananta Bidhushtu Balshanta Mohan Sharan Devacharya Maharaj Shree, with a special sermon delivered by Shri Bihari Saran Guru Maharaj. The spiritual leaders imparted teachings from the Shrimad Bhagavat, fostering self-awareness and promoting human values.
In his address, the Chief Minister extended heartfelt congratulations and sincere gratitude to Jagatguru Maharaj for his divine presence and blessings. He remarked that the Mahayagya, coinciding with the 50th year of Sikkim’s Statehood, brings immense spiritual merit to the State.
He reflected on the paradox of technological advancement and the fading of true ‘chetna’ (consciousness), noting that self-awareness can only be revived through kindness and humanity.
He further highlighted the government's efforts since 2019 to unify communities and strengthen sectors such as health and education. Emphasising cultural preservation, he spoke of initiatives to safeguard Sikkim’s traditions, arts, languages, and heritage.
The Chief Minister paid tribute to former Chief Minister, late Nar Bahadur Bhandari, for his pivotal role in achieving official recognition for the Nepali language in India. Continuing this legacy, the current government has declared the language recognition day as Bhasa Manyata Diwas, a gazetted State holiday.
In his benediction, Jagatguru Maharaj described Sikkim as a spiritually blessed land, graced not only by its natural beauty but by sacred rivers such as the Teesta and Rangeet, revered in Hindu scriptures.
He praised the Chief Minister as a righteous and dharmic leader, calling Sikkim a ‘tirthabhumi’ – a pilgrimage site for Hindus worldwide. He emphasised the purifying power of the sacred rivers and shared his spiritual journey through holy places, which he intends to compile into a book to be presented to the Chief Minister.
As part of the day’s proceedings, the Chief Minister performed the Medha Hawana, a sacred fire ritual for the prosperity and welfare of the State.
He was also felicitated with a token of love and respect by Jagatguru Maharaj, honouring his leadership and dedication.
The event was also attended by SLA deputy Speaker Raj Kumari Thapa, cabinet ministers, MLAs, advisors, chairpersons, Zilla Adhakshya and Upa-Adhakshya of Namchi, the NMC chairperson and councillors, DC Namchi, SSP Namchi, as well as HoOs from various line departments and a large gathering of devotees.